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Playing Catch-Up – Godzilla (2014)

Being on break has allowed me to catch up on reviews that I missed during semester, finally getting to throw in my quick take on films that have maybe left the conversation, but I still want to say something short about. Enjoy!

The first of the 2014 blockbusters that attempt to mix megaplex action and arthouse intellect, Godzilla mildly succeeds in its plight. However, in the process, it becomes stuck between nodding to its B-movie origins playfully and wanting to actually take itself seriously. There’s an eclectic cast here, some of which are very underused (I just wanted it to end with Sally Hawkins and Elizabeth Olsen saving the world, thanks), and even though it takes strides in steering away from convention, we still get the shot of a Japanese actors’, whose character is very stereotypical, spelling out every plot point to the letter, turning around, looking the camera straight-on, and saying “Godzilla”. Despite the smattering of poorly judged dialogue, sometimes laughable situations, and how much I wish more people operated by theJaws adage (don’t show your monster), Godzilla is rather good. The cinematography is exceptional, its attempts, whether in execution or excellent casting, are commendable, and overall, it’s an enjoyable trip to the cinema.